Downturned or narrow eyes can sometimes convey fatigue or sadness, even when we feel perfectly alert. Lateral canthoplasty reshapes the outer corners of the eyes to create a more open, elongated, and lifted appearance. This procedure not only enhances eye symmetry and balance but also rejuvenates the entire upper face, making you look more refreshed, confident, and naturally beautiful.
Medically Reviewed by Dr Colin Tham
Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
MB ChB (Aberdeen), FRCS (Ireland), FAMS
With lateral canthoplasty surgery, also known as outer eyelid surgery, harmony is achieved between both eyes by balancing the amount of conjunctiva (white part of the eyes) exposed. As such, combining with a medial epicanthoplasty, the lengthening of side-to-side length of the eyes, as well as the roundness of the eyes improves, making them look brighter and more doll-like.
The surgery for lateral canthoplasty takes about 30 minutes and it is performed under local anaesthesia. As such, no pain is felt. Stiches are removed 5 days after the procedure, reducing disruption to a person's normal lifestyle.
A lateral canthoplasty is a small surgical procedure performed by a cosmetic surgeon to lengthen the eye on the outer side. It is sometimes known as outer eyelid surgery. It is frequently performed together with a medial epicanthoplasty.
Lateral canthoplasty increases the side-to-side length of the eyes. More sclera (the white part of the eye) is exposed, making the eyes look larger.
Look at yourself in a mirror, pull the skin on the nose-side of your eye towards the nose by 2-5mm. This simulates the results of an epicanthoplasty.
No, the scars are hidden and not conspicuous.
The eyelid surgery usually takes less than 60 minutes under local anaesthetic and light sedation.
Most of our patients return to work within a week.
Consultant Plastic & Cosmetic Surgeon MB ChB (Aberdeen), FRCS (Ireland), FAMS
Dr Colin Tham is an experienced plastic surgeon skilled in all types of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, as well as non-surgical rejuvenation. He is accredited by the Ministry of Health in Singapore and has over 20 years of experience in the field. Dr Tham received extensive plastic surgery training in Scotland, Taiwan, and Singapore; and is committed to providing beautiful and natural-looking outcomes for all his patients.